More than a million pounds of Lottery funding has helped refurbish an historic Liverpool library.

Toxteth Community Library closed in November 2008 to make way for the project, which has transformed the Grade II listed building and vastly improved its facilities.

To help renovate the library’s 40 original sash and casement windows contractor B&D Croft of Leigh, Lancashire, turned to the experts from Ventrolla.

Richard Ellis, managing director of Ventrolla Lancashire, said: “Toxteth Library is an important facility for the local community and we are pleased to have played a part in its rejuvenation.

“The windows were very large and many had an arched shape which made for a more challenging project. Nevertheless we were able to carry out the renovation work in good time and completed the project by laminating the window glass to reduce noise ingress from outside.”

Toxteth Library originally opened in 1902 and attracts around 1,000 visitors a week, including many from the local Chinese community who come to make use of its extensive range of Chinese language books.

The £1.3m grant from the Big Lottery Fund has paid for all repair work, plus the creation of new study areas, meeting rooms, exhibition space, a refreshment area and performance space.

The library, managed by Liverpool City Council’s Library and Information Services department, has also had new computers and Wi-Fi internet access installed throughout, while many new books have been added to its collection.

It is the 18th community library in Liverpool to have been refurbished or redeveloped in the past ten years.

Councillor Warren Bradley, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: "We have been able to completely refurbish this landmark building while retaining its period charm and splendour, creating a centre all local communities can be proud of - whether for meeting, reading, relaxing, studying or learning.”

Ventrolla’s central office is based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with offices throughout the UK and Ireland, and offers a bespoke renovation service for timber sliding sash and casement windows.

Its unique Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS) improves the window’s performance and energy efficiency.

Email: NickTrueman@seal.uk.com